Top 4 Places to Eat in Yakushima

Written by Alexander Kopp, Sandra Frank, Sophie King
21/08/2025
Epic shot of a towering cedar tree in Yakushima's lush forest, capturing the ethereal beauty of nature.
Marek Piwnicki, Pexels

Yakushima's dining scene emphasizes fresh, local ingredients, particularly seafood and regional specialties, providing an authentic taste of the island's natural bounty for visitors.

1. Shiosai

Cuisine: Japanese, Seafood, Tempura

Shiosai offers a welcoming setting to enjoy some of Yakushima's freshest catches. The menu features a variety of local seafood, including the renowned mackerel sashimi and flavorful flying fish karaage. You can also find options like Wagyu beef fillet, providing a diverse selection for guests. The portions are generous, and the staff is accommodating, often providing an English menu.

Price: Lunch: ¥1,500 - ¥3,000 / $10 - $20; Dinner: ¥3,000 - ¥5,000 / $20 - $35

Getting There: Located in Miyanoura, it is approximately a 5-minute walk from Miyanoura Port. Walk left from the port towards the river, and the restaurant is just past the small police station.

2. Wakadaisho

Cuisine: Japanese, Izakaya, Sushi, Sashimi

At Wakadaisho, the atmosphere is lively and inviting, perfect for experiencing an authentic izakaya meal with a focus on incredibly fresh seafood. The sashimi platters are a highlight, showcasing fish often caught by the restaurant's own boats. Beyond seafood, you can also try local delicacies such as raw venison and freshly made tofu. The staff is notably friendly and helpful, providing English menus for ease of ordering.

Price: Dinner: ¥3,500 - ¥6,000 / $25 - $40

Getting There: Situated in Miyanoura, the restaurant is easily accessible by foot from the main town area. Specific walking directions from Miyanoura Port can be confirmed locally.

3. Panorama

Cuisine: Modern Japanese Izakaya, Japanese-Western Fusion

Panorama offers a unique dining experience, blending traditional Japanese flavors with a modern izakaya style. The menu is varied, featuring both Japanese and Western dishes, with a particular emphasis on fresh sashimi and local vegetable creations. The restaurant provides a cozy and stylish ambiance, making it a great choice for an evening meal. They also serve local Yakushima craft beer.

Price: Dinner: ¥2,500 - ¥4,500 / $17 - $30 per dish (some dishes averaging ¥1,200 / $8)

Getting There: Found in the center of Miyanoura, along one of its older streets. It is generally walkable from accommodations in the central Miyanoura area.

4. Smiley Cafe

Cuisine: Cafe, Light Meals, Desserts

Smiley Cafe provides a relaxed setting for a casual meal or a coffee break. They offer freshly made muffins, soups, and a selection of cakes and sandwiches, ideal for a lighter bite. It's a charming spot to unwind, often praised for its cozy atmosphere and the quality of its coffee and baked goods.

Price: Per item: ¥500 - ¥1,500 / $3 - $10

Getting There: Located near Anbo Port, making it a convenient stop for those in the southern part of the island or before/after activities in that area.

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